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If there is one form of transport that perhaps typifies the 18th century more than any other, it is a sedan chair. Recently I have been doing some work on stage coaches, and the experience of what it was actually like to travel in one. This is already turning up some interesting evidence, suggesting that, far … Continue reading Jolted and Jumbled: Riding in a Sedan Chair in the 18th Century
Like it or not, tipping is a big part of hospitality and the service industry. Debates about how much/whether to tip rumble on, but they are not new. Even in the 18th and 19th centuries, travellers were complaining about the amount of unwanted or unexpected extras they had to pay for.
Victorians were inveterate 'swappers' (NB: this might not be what you think!). Newspapers and journals were full of ads for objects sought and to be exchanged. These offer a fascinating insight into what was considered desirable, the value of objects, and the processes of exchange.
Travel today is often portrayed as a healthy activity, good for body, mind…and what’s left of the spirit! A good holiday is generally viewed as a tonic, and holiday company advertisements extol the virtues of ‘getting away’, encountering new places, people and cultures and (if you want to ‘live life to the full’) experiences. As one travel … Continue reading Should I Stay or Should I go?: Encouraging travel in the early modern period.
More in history
If there is one form of transport that perhaps typifies the 18th century more than any other, it is a sedan chair. Recently I have been doing some work on stage coaches, and the experience of what it was actually like to travel in one. This is already turning up some interesting evidence, suggesting that, far … Continue reading Jolted and Jumbled: Riding in a Sedan Chair in the 18th Century
The Ancient Greek World at War JamesHoare Tue, 08/19/2025 - 08:28
In the Arthurian legends, many of King Arthur’s knights undertake a quest to try to find the Holy Grail. Due to how special the grail was, it could not be acquired by just anyone. Of all of King Arthur’s knights, Sir Galahad was exceptionally virtuous. He was even viewed as the perfect knight. Because […]
‘The Invention of the Eastern Question’ by Ozan Ozavcı review JamesHoare Tue, 08/19/2025 - 08:29
On December 13, 1545, around 30 bishops and other religious representatives gathered in the Cathedral of St. Vigilius in Trent, a town in northern Italy. It was the first session of the Council of Trent, the 19th ecumenical council of the Catholic Church. Summoned by Pope Paul III after a 25-year waiting period, the […]
